U.S. patent application number 16/243991 was filed with the patent office on 2019-07-25 for drinkware and plateware and active temperature control module for same.
The applicant listed for this patent is Ember Technologies, Inc.. Invention is credited to Clayton Alexander, Frank Victor Baumann, Daren John Leith, Farzam Roknaldin, Mikko Juhani Timperi, Christopher Thomas Wakeham.
Application Number | 20190223639 16/243991 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 58745434 |
Filed Date | 2019-07-25 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190223639 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Alexander; Clayton ; et
al. |
July 25, 2019 |
DRINKWARE AND PLATEWARE AND ACTIVE TEMPERATURE CONTROL MODULE FOR
SAME
Abstract
An active temperature control module can be used with drinkware
and plateware devices. The drinkware can be a mug made of metal,
and optionally coated with a ceramic material. The active thermal
control module can optionally be removably coupleable to a surface
of the drinkware or plateware device. The module can include at
least one heating element that can thermally communicate with a
surface of the drinkware or plateware device to thereby effect heat
transfer through the base to food stuff (e.g., a solid food, a
liquid food) in the drinkware or plateware device. The module can
include at least one sensor configured to sense a parameter of the
foodstuff, and at least one power storage element configured to
provide power to the at least one heating element. The module can
include control circuitry configured to control operation of the
one or more heating elements, and a transceiver configured to
transmit operating information of the module to a remote electronic
device and to receive operating instructions from the remote
electronic device. Optionally, the module can include a heat
transfer pack that can thermally communicate with the at least one
heating element, and which can be interposed between the at least
one heating element and a surface of the drinkware or plateware
device.
Inventors: |
Alexander; Clayton;
(Westlake Village, CA) ; Wakeham; Christopher Thomas;
(Solana Beach, CA) ; Leith; Daren John; (Agoura
Hills, CA) ; Timperi; Mikko Juhani; (San Marcos,
CA) ; Baumann; Frank Victor; (San Diego, CA) ;
Roknaldin; Farzam; (Coto De Caza, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Ember Technologies, Inc. |
Westlake Village |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
58745434 |
Appl. No.: |
16/243991 |
Filed: |
January 9, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15793207 |
Oct 25, 2017 |
10182674 |
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16243991 |
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15593085 |
May 11, 2017 |
9801482 |
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15793207 |
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62335443 |
May 12, 2016 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04B 1/38 20130101; A47G
19/2288 20130101; H05B 2203/021 20130101; F25B 21/04 20130101; H05B
1/0244 20130101; A47J 41/0044 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A47G 19/22 20060101
A47G019/22; A47J 41/00 20060101 A47J041/00; H05B 1/02 20060101
H05B001/02 |
Claims
1. (canceled)
2. An actively heated temperature control module for plateware,
serverware or drinkware, comprising: a module body that houses one
or more heat transfer elements, circuitry configured to control the
operation of the one or more heating or cooling elements, and one
or more batteries operable to provide power to one or both of the
circuitry and the one or more heating or cooling elements; and a
heat transfer pack attached to the module body, the heat transfer
pack configured to protrude from a top surface of the module body,
the heat transfer pack comprising a thermally conductive material
and in thermal communication with the one or more heating or
cooling elements, the heat transfer pack being configured to deform
to conform to at least a portion of a drinkware, plateware or
serverware device placed thereon irrespective of a shape of the
drinkware, plateware or serverware device, wherein the circuitry is
configured to control the operation of the one or more heating or
cooling elements to heat or cool the heat transfer pack to in turn
heat or cool the drinkware, plateware or serverware device placed
on the heat transfer pack.
3. The module of claim 2, wherein the heat transfer pack is
flexible.
4. The module of claim 2, wherein the thermally conductive material
is a thermally conductive gel.
5. The module of claim 2, wherein the thermally conductive material
is a thermal gap pad material.
6. The module of claim 2, wherein the module body further comprises
a wireless transmitter configured to transmit information of the
module to a remote electronic device and a wireless receiver
configured to receive information from the remote electronic
device.
7. The module of claim 6, wherein the wireless transmitter and
wireless receiver form part of a wireless transceiver.
8. An actively heated temperature control module for plateware,
serverware or drinkware, comprising: a module comprising a body
that houses one or more heating or cooling elements and circuitry
configured to control the operation of the one or more heating or
cooling elements, and a heat transfer pack configured to protrude
from a top portion of the body, the heat transfer pack comprising a
thermally conductive material and in thermal communication with the
one or more heating or cooling elements, the heat transfer pack
being configured to deform to conform to at least a portion of a
drinkware, plateware or serverware device placed thereon
irrespective of a shape of the drinkware, plateware or serverware
device, wherein the circuitry is configured to control the
operation of the one or more heating or cooling elements to heat or
cool the heat transfer pack such that the heat transfer pack heats
or cools the drinkware, plateware or serverware device placed on
the heat transfer pack.
9. The module of claim 8, wherein the body further houses one or
more batteries operable to provide power to one or both of the
circuitry and the one or more heating or cooling elements.
10. The module of claim 8, wherein the heat transfer pack is
flexible.
11. The module of claim 8, wherein the thermally conductive
material is a thermally conductive gel.
12. The module of claim 8, wherein the thermally conductive
material is a thermal gap pad material.
13. The module of claim 8, wherein the body further houses a
wireless transmitter configured to transmit information of the
module to a remote electronic device and a wireless receiver
configured to receive information from the remote electronic
device.
14. The module of claim 13, wherein the wireless transmitter and
wireless receiver form part of a wireless transceiver.
15. In combination with a drinkware, plateware or serverware
device, an actively heated temperature control module, comprising:
a module comprising a body that houses one or more heating or
cooling elements, circuitry configured to control the operation of
the one or more heating or cooling elements, and one or more
batteries that provide power to one or both of the circuitry and
one or more heating or cooling elements, the module further
comprising a heat transfer pack comprising a thermally conductive
material in thermal communication with the one or more heating or
cooling elements, the heat transfer pack being configured to deform
to conform to at least a portion of the drinkware, plateware or
serverware device when placed on the heat transfer pack,
irrespective of a shape of the drinkware, plateware or serverware
device, wherein the circuitry controls the operation of the one or
more heating or cooling elements to heat or cool the heat transfer
pack such that the heat transfer pack heats or cools the drinkware,
plateware or serverware device when disposed on the heat transfer
pack.
16. The combination of claim 15, wherein the heat transfer pack is
flexible.
17. The combination of claim 15, wherein the thermally conductive
material is a thermally conductive gel.
18. The combination of claim 15, wherein the thermally conductive
material is a thermal gap pad material.
19. The combination of claim 15, wherein the body further houses a
wireless transmitter configured to transmit information of the
module to a remote electronic device and a wireless receiver
configured to receive information from the remote electronic
device.
20. The combination of claim 19, wherein the wireless transmitter
and wireless receiver form part of a wireless transceiver.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] Any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic
priority claim is identified in the Application Data Sheet as filed
with the present application are hereby incorporated by reference
under 37 CFR 1.57. This application is related to U.S. application
Ser. No. 14/712,313, filed May 14, 2015, the entire contents of all
of which are hereby incorporated by reference and should be
considered a part of this specification.
BACKGROUND
Field
[0002] The present invention is directed to a drinkware or
plateware device, and more particularly to a drinkware or plateware
device with a detachable active temperature control module used to
heat or cool contents thereof.
Description of the Related Art
[0003] Ceramic mugs, used for example to drink coffee and tea, are
well known and used at home, in restaurants and cafes. However,
conventional ceramic mugs do not allow the beverage to remain hot
throughout the beverage drinking process, so that the liquid
temperature decreases during consumption of the beverage. Ceramic
mugs also have poor thermal conductivity, making common ceramic
mugs unsuitable for use with a heating unit (e.g., to try to heat
the liquid in the mug to maintain it in a heated state during the
drinking process).
SUMMARY
[0004] There is a need for a detachable active temperature control
module that can be used with drinkware and plateware devices (such
as a mug or plate) for heating or cooling the contents thereof
(e.g., coffee, tea, water, food) that is easy to use and that can
optionally communicate with electronics (e.g., smartphones) to
allow easy operation of the module. Additionally, there is a need
for a module that can be easily attached to and detached from the
drinkware and plateware device to allow the device to be washed
without risking damage to the electronics in the module. Further,
there is also a need for a module that can be used with existing
plateware and drinkware devices (e.g., existing plates or mugs) in
a user's kitchen. There is also a need for a module that can be
used with a plurality of mugs (e.g., at a cafe) operable to
maintain a drinking temperature of a beverage in a mug for an
extended period of time (e.g., while the user is in the cafe) to
improve the customer experience.
[0005] In accordance with one aspect, a beverage container system
is provided. The system comprises a container made of metal and
having a body with an open top end, a circumferential wall and a
base at a bottom end, the body having a chamber defined by the
circumferential wall and base of the body. The system also
comprises a temperature control module removably coupleable to the
bottom end of the container. The module comprises at least one
heating or cooling element configured to be placed in thermal
communication with the base of the body when the module is coupled
to the container to thereby heat or cool at least a portion of the
chamber, control circuitry configured to control operation of the
one or more heating or cooling elements, at least one power storage
element configured to provide power to one or both of the control
circuitry and the at least one heating or cooling element, and one
or both of a wireless transmitter configured to transmit
information of the module to a remote electronic device and a
wireless receiver configured to receive information from the remote
electronic device.
[0006] In accordance with another aspect, a temperature control
module removably coupleable to a beverage container is provided.
The module comprises at least one heating or cooling element
configured to be placed in thermal communication with a surface of
the container when the module is coupled to the container to
thereby heat or cool at least a portion of a chamber of the
container. The module also comprises at least one temperature
sensor configured to contact a surface of the container when the
module is coupled to the container, the at least one temperature
sensor configured to sense a parameter indicative of a temperature
of contents in the container, control circuitry configured to
control operation of the one or more heating or cooling elements,
at least one power storage element configured to provide power to
one or both of the control circuitry and the at least one heating
or cooling element, and one or both of a wireless transmitter
configured to transmit information of the module to a remote
electronic device and a wireless receiver configured to receive
information from the remote electronic device.
[0007] In accordance with another aspect, a temperature control
module removably coupleable to a plateware device is provided. The
module comprises at least one heating or cooling element configured
to be placed in thermal communication with a surface of the
plateware device when the module is coupled to the plateware device
to thereby heat or cool foodstuff on the plateware device. The
module also comprises a heat transfer pack that protrudes form an
upper surface of the module and is in thermal communication with
the at least one heating or cooling element, control circuitry
configured to control operation of the one or more heating or
cooling elements, at least one power storage element configured to
provide power to one or both of the control circuitry and the at
least one heating or cooling element, and one or both of a wireless
transmitter configured to transmit information of the module to a
remote electronic device and a wireless receiver configured to
receive information from the remote electronic device. The heat
transfer pack is configured to thermally communicate the at least
one heating or cooling element with a bottom surface of the
plateware device when the plateware device is disposed on the
module.
[0008] In accordance with one aspect, an actively heated beverage
container system is provided. The system comprises a container made
of metal and having a body with an open top end, a circumferential
wall and a base at a bottom end, the body having a chamber defined
by the circumferential wall and base of the body. The system also
comprises a temperature control module comprising at least one
heating element in thermal communication with a surface of the body
to heat at least a portion of the chamber, control circuitry
configured to control operation of the one or more heating
elements, at least one power storage element configured to provide
power to one or both of the control circuitry and the at least one
heating element, and one or both of a wireless transmitter
configured to transmit information of the module to a remote
electronic device and a wireless receiver configured to receive
information from the remote electronic device. Optionally, the at
least one heating element is in thermal communication with the base
of the body. Optionally, the at least one heating element is in
thermal communication with the circumferential wall of the body.
Optionally, the at least one heating element is in thermal
communication with the base and the circumferential wall of the
body.
[0009] In accordance with another aspect, an actively heated
beverage container system is provided. The system comprises a
container made of metal and having a body with an open top end, a
circumferential wall and a base at a bottom end, the body having a
chamber defined by the circumferential wall and base of the body.
The system also comprises a temperature control module comprising
at least one heating element in thermal communication with a
surface of the body to heat at least a portion of the chamber,
control circuitry configured to control operation of the at least
one heating element, at least one power storage element configured
to provide power to one or both of the control circuitry and the at
least one heating element, one or both of a wireless transmitter
configured to transmit information to a remote electronic device
and a wireless receiver configured to receive information from the
remote electronic device, and a visual indicator on an outer
surface of the container that can be lit in one of a plurality of
colors selected by a user via the remote electronic device to
identify the container. Optionally, the at least one heating
element is in thermal communication with the base of the body.
Optionally, the at least one heating element is in thermal
communication with the circumferential wall of the body.
Optionally, the at least one heating element is in thermal
communication with the base and the circumferential wall of the
body.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] FIG. 1 is a perspective front view of one embodiment of a
mug with an active temperature control module attached to a bottom
of the mug.
[0011] FIG. 2 is a perspective exploded view of the mug and active
temperature control module of FIG. 1 when detached.
[0012] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the mug and active
temperature control module of FIG. 1.
[0013] FIGS. 4A-4B show a top perspective and bottom perspective
view of another embodiment of an active temperature control
module.
[0014] FIGS. 5A-5B show a top perspective and bottom perspective
view of another embodiment of an active temperature control
module.
[0015] FIGS. 6A-6B show a top perspective and bottom perspective
view of another embodiment of an active temperature control
module.
[0016] FIGS. 7A-7B show a top perspective and bottom perspective
view of another embodiment of an active temperature control
module.
[0017] FIG. 8 shows one embodiment of a charging assembly for use
with an active temperature control module.
[0018] FIG. 9 shows an embodiment of a bottom of an active
temperature control module.
[0019] FIGS. 10A-10B show an embodiment of an active temperature
control module with a visual indicator screen.
[0020] FIG. 11 shows an embodiment of a temperature control module
on the charging assembly.
[0021] FIG. 12A shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a power
storage unit for use in the temperature control module, with an
outer portion of the unit partially removed.
[0022] FIG. 12B shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the power
storage unit of FIG. 12A.
[0023] FIG. 13 shows a schematic view of a heat transfer element
arrangement of the active temperature control module.
[0024] FIG. 14 shows a schematic view of a mug with one or more
temperature sensors.
[0025] FIG. 15 is a schematic block diagram showing communication
between the active temperature control module and a remote
electronic device.
[0026] FIG. 16 shows a schematic view of a system for using a
plurality of active temperature control modules.
[0027] FIG. 17 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment
of an active temperature control module for use with existing
plateware.
[0028] FIG. 18 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a
mug with a charging coaster.
[0029] FIG. 19 shows a schematic front view of the mug and charging
coaster of FIG. 18.
[0030] FIG. 20 shows a cross-sectional assembled view of the mug of
FIG. 18.
[0031] FIG. 21 shows a cross-sectional exploded view of the mug of
FIG. 18.
[0032] FIG. 22 shows a partially assembled bottom view of the mug
of FIG. 18.
[0033] FIG. 23 shows a perspective bottom view of internal
components of the mug of FIG. 18.
[0034] FIG. 24 shows a partial sectional view of internal
components of the mug of FIG. 18.
[0035] FIG. 25 shows a sectional view of internal components of the
mug of FIG. 18.
[0036] FIG. 26 shows a schematic view of a heater and sensor
assembly of the mug of FIG. 18.
[0037] FIG. 27 shows a perspective bottom view of the mug of FIG.
18.
[0038] FIG. 28 shows a top view of the charging coaster of FIG.
18.
[0039] FIG. 29 shows a perspective bottom view of the charging
coaster of FIG. 18.
[0040] FIGS. 30A-30B shows schematic cross-sectional views of heat
spreader design.
[0041] FIG. 31 shows a schematic view of a heating element.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0042] FIGS. 1-3 show one embodiment of a drinkware container
(e.g., mug) 100 and active temperature control module 200. The
temperature control module 200 can advantageously operate during at
least a period of time (e.g., a portion of the period of time)
during which the module 200 is attached to the container 100 to
increase or decrease or maintain a temperature of a liquid in the
container 100. Accordingly, the term "active", as used herein, is
not limited to continuous operation of the module 200 while it is
attached to the container 100. As used herein, heat transfer
encompasses a heating, as well as a cooling, process. Therefore, a
"heat transfer element" as used herein is an element that can
effect a heating or a cooling process.
[0043] In the illustrated embodiment, the container 100 can look
like a typical ceramic mug with an open top end 10, a base or
closed (e.g., flat) bottom end 20 having a bottom surface 22, and a
cavity or chamber 30 defined by a circumferential wall 40 and the
base 20. Optionally, the container 100 can have a handle 27.
[0044] Preferably, the base 20 and circumferential wall 40 of the
mug 100 are made of a thermally conductive material, such as a
metal (e.g., stainless steel). In one embodiment, the mug 100 is
double walled, where the circumferential wall 40 is defined by an
inner wall 40A and an outer wall 40B that is spaced apart from the
inner wall 40A to define a chamber 42 therebetween. In one
embodiment, the base 20 is single walled with a thickness of
between about 0.2 mm and about 13 mm, in some embodiments about 0.3
mm.
[0045] The outer wall 40B of the mug 100 can be coated with a
ceramic material so that the mug 100 looks like a conventional
ceramic mug. The ceramic material can allow the mug 100 to be
coated with text and/or logos, in the same manner conventional mugs
are.
[0046] In one embodiment, the chamber 42 can optionally be filled
with an insulative material. The insulative material can
advantageously enhance the thermal properties of the mug 100 by
inhibiting heat loss through the circumferential wall 40.
Additionally, the insulative material can reduce or inhibit the
metallic sound of the mug 100 (e.g., ceramic coated mug), allowing
the mug 100 to sound similar to a conventional ceramic mug.
[0047] With continued reference to FIGS. 1-3, the module 200 (e.g.,
a heating module, a cooling module, a heating/cooling module) can
optionally include one or more of heat transfer elements 210 (e.g.,
heating elements or cooling elements or heating/cooling elements,
such as thermoelectric or Peltier elements), one or more power
storage element 60 and/or control circuitry 80. The module 200 can
removably couple to the bottom portion of the container 100 so that
the one or more heat transfer elements 210 is in contact with the
bottom end 20 (e.g., the bottom surface 22) of the container 100.
In the illustrated embodiment, there are no electronics (e.g.,
batteries, sensors, heating/cooling elements) in the container 100;
all electronics and the one or more heat transfer elements 210 are
in the module 200. Advantageously, this allows the container 100 to
be readily washed (e.g., hand washed or in a dishwasher), once the
container 100 is decoupled from the module 200, without worrying
about possible damage to electronics.
[0048] In another embodiment, the one or more heat transfer
elements can be incorporated into the container 100, such as into
the base 20 of the container 100 (as disclosed in other embodiments
herein), and power to the one or more heat transfer elements can be
communicated from the module 200 via one or more electrical
contacts between the container 100 and the temperature control
module 200.
[0049] FIGS. 4A-4B show one embodiment of a module 200A, which is
similar to the temperature control module 200 described above,
except as noted below. The module 200A can have one or more magnets
6992 configured to magnetically couple to the bottom end 20 (e.g.,
bottom surface 22) of the container 100 (e.g., couple to one or
more magnets 6994 on the bottom surface 22) to couple the module
200A to the container 100 so that one or more heat transfer
elements 210A contact the bottom end 20, such as the bottom surface
22, of the container 100. Once the user is done using the module
200A (e.g., to heat or cool a liquid in the container 100), the
user can decouple the module 200A from the container 100 (e.g., to
allow the container 100 to be washed).
[0050] FIGS. 5A-5B show one embodiment of a module 200B, which is
similar to the temperature control module 200 described above,
except as noted below. The module 200B can removably couple to the
bottom end 20 of the container 100 so that the one or more heat
transfer elements 210B contact the bottom end 20 (e.g., contact the
bottom surface 22). The module 200B can have a threaded portion
7092 that can threadably couple to a threaded portion 7094 on the
bottom end 20 of the container 100 to couple the module 200B to the
container 100. Once the user is done using the module 200B (e.g.,
to heat a liquid in the container 100), the user can decouple the
module 200B from the container 100 (e.g., to allow the container
100 to be washed).
[0051] FIGS. 6A-6B show one embodiment of a module 200C, which is
similar to the temperature control module 200 described above,
except as noted below. The module 200C can removably couple to the
bottom end 20 of the container 100 (e.g., in a press-fit manner,
using one or more magnets, etc.) so that the one or more heat
transfer elements of the module 200C contact the bottom end 20
(e.g., contact the bottom surface 22) of the container 100. In
another embodiment, the one or more heat transfer elements (e.g., a
heating element, such as a resistive heater) can be incorporated
into the container 100, and power to the one or more heat transfer
elements can be communicated from the module 200C via one or more
electrical contacts 7192 of the container 100. Additionally, power
can be provided to one or more sensors (e.g., temperature sensors,
capacitance sensors, tilt sensors) in the container 100 via an
electrical contact 7196 in the module 200C that contacts an
electrical contact 7198 in the container 100 when the module 200C
is coupled to the container 100. In such an embodiment, the bottom
end 20 (e.g., bottom surface 22) of the container 100 can be an
insulated surface and the one or more heat transfer elements and
one or more sensors can be water sealed in the container 100. In
one embodiment, the one or more of the electrical contacts 7192,
7194, 7196, 7198 can be pogo pins or contact springs, or other
suitable electrical connectors. Advantageously, if the module 200C
was separated from the bottom end 20 of the container 100, the one
or more heat transfer elements would remain in the container 100
and be inaccessible to the user, thereby inhibiting injuries (e.g.,
burns) to the user if the module 200C is decoupled from the
container 100 while in operation.
[0052] FIGS. 7A-7B show one embodiment of a module 200D, which is
similar to the temperature control module 200 described above,
except as noted below. The module 200D can have a pin portion 7292
that can couple to a notched or recessed portion 7294 on the bottom
end 20 of the container 100 to couple the module 200D to the
container 100 in a twist-lock manner (e.g., by inserting the module
200D into the bottom end of the container 100 and rotating the
module 200D, for example a quarter turn, to lock the module 200D to
the container 100) so that the one or more heat transfer elements
210D contact the bottom end 20 (e.g., contact the bottom surface
22) of the container 100. Once the user is done using the module
200D (e.g., to heat a liquid in the container 100), the user can
decouple the module 200D from the container 100 (e.g., to allow the
container 100 to be washed).
[0053] In one embodiment, actuation of the one or more heat
transfer elements (e.g., heat transfer elements 210-210D) can begin
automatically upon the coupling of the module 200-200D to the
container 100. For example, one or more sensors can sense when the
module 200-200D couples to the container 100 and communicate a
signal to control circuitry 80 in the module 200-200D to provide
power to the one or more heat transfer elements 210-210D to heat or
cool the contents in the container 100. Conversely, actuation of
the one or more heat transfer elements 210-210D can cease
automatically upon decoupling of the module 200-200D from the
container 100 (e.g., based on sensed information from one or more
sensors that the module 200-200D is not coupled to the container
100. Such one or more sensors can include a pressure sensor, a
contact sensor, a capacitance sensor, an optical sensor, or any
other suitable type of sensor for sensing the coupling or
decoupling of the module 200-200D with the container 100.
[0054] The control circuitry 80 can control the operation of the
one or more heat transfer elements 210-210D to control the amount
of energy supplied to the liquid in the chamber of the container
100 to maintain or increase or decrease the temperature of the
liquid. Optionally, the control circuitry 80 can control delivery
of power to the one or more heat transfer elements 210-210D based
at least in part on information from one or more sensors that sense
a parameter of quality of the liquid (e.g., temperature, volume,
level, acidity, pH) where said one or more sensors can be on a
surface of one or both of the module 200-200D and container 100.
For example, such sensors can be on the bottom surface 22 of the
container 100 and/or the top surface of the module 200-200D.
[0055] The control circuitry 80 can include a memory that stores or
receives one or more algorithms (e.g., wirelessly via a tablet or
smartphone app, via a wired connection or during manufacturing of
the module 200-200D at the factory) that can be executed by the
control circuitry 80 to control the operation of the one or more
heat transfer elements 210-210D and/or to determine a parameter of
the liquid based on sensed information. In one embodiment, such
algorithms can be used to determine one or more parameters of the
liquid in the container 100 based on sensed information for another
parameter of the liquid. In one embodiment, the container 100 can
include one or more sensors in communication with inner liquid
holding chamber 30 (e.g., in contact with the circumferential
sidewall 40 or base 20, whose sensed information can provide an
indication of a temperature of the liquid in the container 100, and
an algorithm can calculate a volume of the liquid in the chamber
based on the sensed information of the same sensor. For example, by
sensing how long it takes for the liquid to change temperature upon
actuation of the one or more heat transfer elements 210-210D, the
algorithm can calculate the approximate volume of liquid in the
chamber (e.g., if the container 100 is full of liquid, it may take
X seconds for the sensed temperature to change, but if the
container 100 is half-full of liquid, it may take Y seconds for the
sensed temperature to change). Though such algorithms are described
in connection with the container 100, one of skill in the art will
recognize that such algorithms can be implemented or use by the
control circuitry 80 of other drinkware, dishware and serverware
devices as disclosed herein.
[0056] The sensed temperature can be communicated to the control
circuitry 80, which can then adjust the amount of power supplied to
the one or more heat transfer elements 210-210D based on the sensed
temperature (e.g., the control circuitry can reduce power to the
one or more heat transfer elements 210-210D as the desired
temperature for the liquid is approached). Additionally, the
control circuitry 80 can control the operation of the one or more
heat transfer elements 210-210D based on preselected temperature
(e.g., user selected temperature, such as one provided by the user
directly via a user interface on the module 200-200D, or wirelessly
via a tablet or smartphone app), or based on a predetermined
temperature set point (e.g., temperature set point saved into a
memory of the control circuitry 80, either by a user, such as via a
tablet or smartphone app, or at the factory during manufacture).
The control circuitry 80 can advantageously control the amount of
power supplied to the one or more heat transfer elements 210-210D
to prevent the temperature of the liquid from increasing above the
predetermined or preselected temperature. For example, in one
embodiment, the control circuitry 80 can include a temperature
sensitive switch, which can open if the sensed temperature of the
liquid in the container 100 increases above a temperature set
point, thereby cutting off power supply to the one or more heat
transfer elements 210-210D.
[0057] FIG. 8 shows a charging assembly 400 can be provided for
charging the module 200. The charging assembly 400 can have a
charging plate 410 with one or more portions (e.g., recesses) 420
on which (e.g., into which) a bottom portion of the module 200-200D
can be placed so that a corresponding electrical contact on a
charging base 396 of the module 200 contacts an electrical contact
430 of the charging plate 410. In one embodiment, the electrical
contact 430 can be circular, though other shapes are possible. In
one embodiment, the electrical contact 430 is gold plated. The
illustrated embodiment shows the charging plate 410 with two
portions (e.g., recesses) 420 and two electrical contacts 430 to
charge two separate modules 200-200D at the same time. However, in
other embodiments, the charging plate 410 can have a single portion
or recess 420 and single electrical contact 430. The charging plate
410 can connect via an electrical cord 440 to an electrical
connector 450. In the illustrated embodiment, the electrical
connector 450 is a wall connector for connecting to AC power. In
other embodiments, the electrical connector 450 can be a connector
for connecting to DC power, such as to a car charger. In still
another embodiment, the electrical connector 450 can be a USB
connector that allows the electrical cord to be connected to a
computer, portable battery, or to a separate wall connector for
connecting to a wall outlet (e.g., similar to charger for iPhone).
With reference to FIG. 9, the module 200-200D can have an
electrical contact 298 that is annular or donut shaped and
surrounds a base surface 299.
[0058] With reference to FIGS. 10A-10B, the module 200-200D can
have a visual indicator screen 395 that can illustrate one or more
logos or messages (e.g., regarding the operation of the module
200-200D).
[0059] With reference to FIG. 11, the module 200-200D can
optionally include one or more buttons 390 that a user can press to
release the coupling between the module 200-200D and the container
100. For example, pressing the buttons 390 can optionally actuate
the control circuitry 80 in the module 200-200D to change the
polarity of the one or more magnets so that they provide a
repelling force, instead or an attracting force, relative to the
container 100. In another embodiment, pushing the buttons 390
mechanically decouples the magnets on the module 200-200D from the
bottom wall of the container 100.
[0060] FIGS. 12A-12B show one embodiment of a power storage unit
500 for use with the module 200-200D. The power storage unit 500
can include a power storage element 510 surrounded by a chamber 520
filled with a phase change material (PCM) 530. The phase change
material 530 preferably has a transition temperature of between
about 50 degrees F. to about 100 degrees F., in some embodiments
about 70 degrees F. The phase change material 530 can
advantageously have a transition temperature that can allow the
phase change material 530 to protect the power storage element 510
from high temperature swings. For example, if the module 200-200D
is accidentally placed in the dishwasher (with the container 100)
to wash the container 100, the phase change material 530 can
advantageously absorb heat resulting from the temperature swings
during operation of the dishwasher, to avoid damage to the power
storage element 510. Though FIGS. 12A-12B show one power storage
element 510 enclosed by the phase change material 530, one of skill
in the art will understand that a plurality of power storage
elements 510 can be enclosed by the phase change material 530. In
one embodiment, the PCM can enclose all the electronics in the
module 200-200D, not just the power storage element(s) 510.
[0061] FIG. 13 shows a schematic view of an arrangement of one or
more heat transfer elements 210-210D and one or more sensors 550
arranged on a surface 202 of the module 200-200D that is placed in
thermal communication with the bottom end 20 (e.g., bottom surface
22) of the container 100. In one embodiment, the one or more
sensors 550 includes a temperature sensor 550 that can sense a
temperature of the liquid in the chamber 30 via the base 20 of the
container 100. In one embodiment, the one or more sensors 550
communicates the sensed information (e.g., sensed temperature of
the bottom surface 22 of the container 100) to the control
circuitry 80, which determines a sensed liquid temperature in the
container 100 (e.g., using an algorithm that correlates the sensed
temperature of the bottom surface 22 with the temperature of the
liquid in the container 100, such as taking into account the
thermal conductivity of the bottom end 20 of the container 100).
The one or more sensors 550 can be spaced apart from the one or
more heat transfer elements 210-210D by a distance of at least
about 10 mm, to inhibit the information sensed by the one or more
sensors 550 being influenced by the proximity of the one or more
heat transfer elements 210-210D; however other suitable distances
are possible (e.g., at least about 5 mm). In one embodiment, the
distance between the one or more sensors 550 and the one or more
heat transfer elements 210-210D is substantially uniform in all
directions. For example, where the one or more sensors 550 includes
a temperature sensor 550, the temperature sensor 550 is disposed at
least about 10 mm away from the one or more heat transfer elements
210-210D to inhibit the sensed temperature by the temperature
sensor 550 being influenced by the energy output of the one or more
heat transfer elements 210-210D.
[0062] FIG. 14 shows a schematic view of a container 100 with one
or more sensors 570 disposed along the height of the
circumferential wall 40 of the container 100 to sense or measure a
parameter of liquid in the chamber 30 of the container. In one
embodiment, the one or more sensors 570 can be a plurality of
sensors 570 arranged as a strip 580 along at least a part of the
height of the circumferential wall 40 of the container 100. In the
illustrated embodiment, the container 100 can be removably coupled
to the module 200-200D, where the module 200-200D can have an
electric contact (such as 7192 in FIG. 6A) that interfaces with the
one or more sensors 570 when the module 200-200D is coupled to the
container 100 in order to electrically connect the one or more
sensors 570 with the control circuitry 80 in the module 200-200D.
In one embodiment, the one or more sensors 570 can be capacitance
sensors, or temperature sensors. Where temperature or capacitance
sensors, the information sensed by the one or more sensors 570 can
be used to estimate a liquid level in the container 100. For
example, the liquid level in the container 100 can be estimated
(e.g., by the control circuitry 80) by comparing a sensed reading
(e.g., of temperature, capacitance) from one sensor relative to an
adjacent sensor (e.g., estimating that the liquid level is at a
location between two adjacent temperature sensors where the
temperature readings from said adjacent temperature sensors vary by
more than a certain amount). In other embodiments, the one or more
sensors 570 can be other suitable types of sensors disclosed
herein.
[0063] FIG. 15 above shows a block diagram of a communication
system for any of the modules 200-200D of the containers described
herein. In the illustrated embodiment, the electronic module EM
(such as the electronic module disclosed herein for the module
200-200D), which can include the control circuitry 80, can receive
sensed information from one or more sensors S1-Sn (e.g., liquid
level sensors, liquid volume sensors, temperature sensors, battery
charge sensors, capacitance sensors, tilt sensors or gyroscopes),
which can include the one or more sensor 550, 570. The electronic
module EM can also receive information from and transmit
information (e.g., instructions) to one or more heating elements
(or cooling elements or heating/cooling elements) HC, such as the
elements 210-210D (e.g., to operate each of the heating elements in
a heating mode, turn off, turn on, vary power output of, etc.) and
optionally to one or more power storage devices PS, such as the
power storage elements 60 (e.g., batteries, such as to charge the
batteries or manage the power provided by the batteries to the one
or more heating or cooling elements). The electronic module EM can
also communicate with a wireless power transmitter WPT (e.g., an
inductive power transmitter) optionally on the module 200-200D. The
electronic module EM can also communicate with (e.g., transmit
information to and receive information, such as user instructions
like temperature setpoints from) a user interface UI1 on the module
200-200D (e.g., on the body of the module 200-200D). The electronic
module EM can also communicate with an electronic device ED (e.g.,
a mobile electronic device such as a mobile phone, PDA, tablet
computer, laptop computer, electronic watch; or a desktop computer)
via the cloud CL or via a wireless communication system such as
Bluetooth BT. The electronic device ED can have a user interface
UI2, that can display information associated with the operation of
the module 200-200D (as disclosed herein), and that can receive
information (e.g., instructions, such as user selected temperature
for the liquid in the container) from a user and communicate said
information to the module 200-200D (as disclosed herein).
[0064] The term "electronic module" is meant to refer to
electronics generally. Furthermore, the term "electronic module"
should not be interpreted to require that the electronics be all in
one physical location or connected to one single printed circuit
board (PCB). One of skill in the art will recognize that the
electronic module or electronics disclosed herein can be in one or
more (e.g., plurality) of separate parts (coupled to one or a
plurality of PCBs) and/or located in different physical locations
of the module 200-200D, as disclosed herein. That is, the
electronic module or electronics can have different form
factors.
Sensors
[0065] With respect to any of the containers disclosed above, one
or more sensors S1-Sn can be provided. In some embodiments, at
least one sensor S2 of the one or more sensors S1-Sn can sense a
liquid level (or information indicative of a liquid level) in a
chamber 30 of the container 100.
[0066] In one embodiment, the sensor S2 can be a load cell (in the
module 200-200D) that can sense a weight of the container 100. The
electronic module EM of the container 100 can receive the sensed
weight information and compare it against a reference weight data
(e.g., previously sensed when the container was empty and/or that
is stored in a memory of the electronic module EM), and calculate a
volume or level of the liquid in the container 100 (e.g., using an
algorithm to convert the sensed weight information to liquid volume
or level measurement).
[0067] In another embodiment, the sensor S2 can be a pressure
sensor on a portion of the chamber 30 of the container 100 and can
sense a hydrostatic pressure of the liquid in the chamber 30. The
electronic module EM can calculate a liquid volume or level based
at least in part on the sensed pressure information from the sensor
S2.
[0068] In another embodiment, the sensor S2 can be a capacitance
sensor (e.g., capacitance sensing strip) that extends along at
least a portion of the length of a sidewall of the container 100.
The sensor S2 can sense a capacitance of a liquid in the container
100 relative to a capacitance of air above the liquid level and
communicate the sensed information to the electronic module EM,
which can provide a measurement of liquid volume or liquid level in
the container 100 based on the sensed information. In another
embodiment, the sensor S2 can sense a conductivity of the liquid or
air proximate the sensor and the electronic module EM can provide a
measurement of liquid level or volume based at least in part on the
sensed information.
[0069] In another embodiment, the sensor S2 can be an ultrasonic
sensor on a sidewall of the container 100. The sensor S2 can use a
pulse-echo or wall resonance (e.g. resonance of the sidewall of the
container 100) to sense information indicative of a liquid level in
the container. For example, the sensor S2 can sense a time it takes
for pulse emitted by the sensor S2 into the chamber 30 of the
container 100 to return to the sensor (e.g., once it bounces from
the liquid level location). The sensor S2 can transmit the sensed
information to the electronic module EM, which can provide a
measurement of liquid volume or liquid level in the container based
on the sensed information.
[0070] In another embodiment, the sensor S2 can be an accelerometer
or tilt sensor (e.g., gyroscope). The sensor S2 can sense an
orientation (or change in orientation) of the container 100 and
communicate the sensed orientation information to the electronic
module EM. The electronic module EM can estimate a liquid level in
the container 100 based on the sensed orientation information
(e.g., using an algorithm that correlates a tilt angle to a liquid
level). For example, if the sensor S2 senses an orientation of less
than a first threshold (e.g., less than 30 degrees from an upright
position) when a user has the container 100 against their lips
(e.g., sensed via a sensor on the container lip or lid, such as a
contact sensor, temperature sensor, etc.) then the electronic
module estimates the liquid level to be about full, and if the
sensor S2 senses an orientation greater than a second threshold
(e.g., greater than 90 degrees from an upright position) when a
user has the container against their lips (e.g., sensed via a
sensor on the container lip or lid, such as a contact sensor,
temperature sensor, etc.) then the electronic module estimates the
liquid level to be about empty, and the electronic module EM can
use an algorithm to interpolate between the two thresholds to infer
intermediate liquid levels of the container (e.g., half full,
quarter full, etc.).
[0071] In another embodiment, the sensor S2 can be a light sensor
that measures light attenuation through the liquid and provides the
sensed information to the electronic module EM, which can provide a
measurement of liquid volume or liquid level in the container based
on the sensed information (e.g., using an algorithm to correlate
light attenuation with liquid volume or level).
[0072] In another embodiment, liquid level in the container 100 is
measured based on sensed temperature (or information indicative of
temperature) from one or more (e.g., a plurality of) temperature
sensors S3. In one embodiment, the one or more sensors S3 can sense
how long it takes the temperature to increase a reference number of
degrees (e.g., 1 degree F. or 1 degree C.) when the chamber 30 of
the container 100 is full of liquid to provide a first reference
time, and the first reference time can be stored in a memory (e.g.,
a memory of the electronic module EM). Optionally, additional
reference times can be provided by the one or more sensors S3 when
the chamber 30 of the container 100 has other volumes of liquid
therein (e.g., half full, 3/4 full) and the reference times stored
in said memory. During operation of the container, the one or more
temperature sensors S3 can measure how long it takes for the
temperature in the chamber to change by said reference number of
degrees and communicate the sensed time information to the
electronic module EM, which can provide a measurement of liquid
volume or liquid level in the container based on the sensed time
information, for example, based on an algorithm correlating time
versus liquid volume or level. In one embodiment, the sensed time
information is compared against one or more of the reference times
and the liquid level or volume interpolated between the level or
volume values corresponding to the reference times. Optionally, the
algorithm can calculate the liquid volume or level based at least
in part on sensed ambient temperature (e.g., from a sensor S4), to
account for variations in how long it takes the temperature to
increases by the reference number of degrees depending on ambient
temperature (e.g., at high altitude, low altitude, in winter, in
summer, etc.). Use of the one or more temperature sensor S3
therefore advantageously allows measurement of temperature and
liquid level in the container with one sensor instead of requiring
a separate sensor to measure liquid level, which provides for a
simpler and less costly system. In another embodiment, the module
200-200D can have a plurality of temperature sensors S3 along the
length of the container 100 and the liquid level in the chamber 30
of the container 100 can be determined by the electronic module EM
by comparing the sensed temperature readings from the plurality of
temperature sensors S3 (e.g., estimating that the liquid level is
at a location between two adjacent temperature sensors where the
temperature readings from said adjacent temperature sensors vary by
more than a certain amount).
[0073] FIG. 16 shows a schematic view of a method 800 for using a
plurality of temperature control modules 200-200D in a commercial
setting, such as a cafe or restaurant. The method 800 can include
first identifying 810 the temperature the customer would like the
liquid served at. For example, the cafe attendant or cashier or
waiter can ask the customer what temperature they would like their
coffee or tea served at, after which the beverage could be poured
into a container (e.g., mug), like the container 100 described
herein, and a module 200-200D attached to the container 100 and
turned on to maintain the beverage at the requested temperature. In
one embodiment, the cafe attendant or cashier or waiter can pull
815 the module 200-200D from a set of modules 200-200D disposed on
charging bases (e.g., like off a conveyor belt). The attendant,
cashier or waiter could then tag 820 the customer to the container
100, for example using near field communication, to allow tracking
of the module 200-200D. In one embodiment, the module 200-200D
could have an alarm installed 830 that is activated when the module
200-200D is decoupled from the container 100, inhibiting users from
decoupling the module 200-200D without detection. In another
embodiment, the near field connection (e.g., Bluetooth connection)
between the module 200-200D and the container 100 can be broken if
the container 100 is more than a predetermined distance from a
reference location (e.g., from the counter), and an alert (visual,
audio) can be sent to an operator (e.g., attendant). In still
another embodiment, the control circuitry 80 can receive a
notification when the near field connection has been broken and
cease operation of the module 200-200D. In one embodiment, the
cafe, restaurant or establishment could have sensors near the exits
to sense if a module 200-200D is passing through the exit, to
inhibit theft of the modules 200-200D.
[0074] FIG. 17 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of another
embodiment of a temperature control module 200E, which is similar
to the temperature control module 200-200D described above, except
as noted below. The module 200E can be used with existing plateware
or serverware that users may have (e.g., existing plates, bowls,
platters, soup tureens, etc.). In the illustrated embodiment, the
plateware is a plate 910 with a rim underneath its bottom surface
that allows the bottom surface of the plate 910 to sit away from a
supporting surface (e.g., table, counter). However, persons of
skill in the art will recognize that the temperature control module
200E can be used with any type of plate, such as plates that do not
have a rim or ridge on its bottom surface. For example, the module
200E can be used with plates with a bottom surface that sits flat
and contacts the surface of the table, counter, etc. That is, the
module 200E can be used with existing plateware and serverware,
irrespective of the shape of the plateware or serverware.
[0075] The module 200E can have some of the same components as
described above for the modules 200-200D, including control
circuitry 80, one or more power storage elements 60, and one or
more heat transfer elements 210E. Additionally, the module 200E has
a heat transfer pack 900 that protrudes from a top surface of the
module 200E and is in thermal communication with the one or more
heat transfer elements 210E. In one embodiment, the heat transfer
pack 900 includes a thermally conductive material 920, such as a
thermally conductive gel or thermal gap pad material, which
contacts a bottom surface of the plateware when it is placed on the
module 200E. In one embodiment, the heat transfer pack 900 is
flexible. For example, when used with a plate 910 that has a rim or
ridge on its bottom surface, the heat transfer pack 900 can fill
the space between the rim of the plateware 910 and the bottom
surface of the plateware 910 and optionally also contact a bottom
surface of the plate 910 that is outward from the rim or ridge of
the bottom of the plate, allowing heat transfer between the one or
more heat transfer elements 210E and a bottom surface of the
plateware 910. As discussed above, the module 200E can be used with
existing plateware and serverware irrespective of the shape of the
plateware or serverware. Accordingly, when used with plates that
have a flat bottom surface (i.e., no ridge or rim on the bottom
surface), the heat transfer pack 900 contacts at least the flat
bottom surface of the plate.
[0076] Advantageously, because the module 200-200D is removable, it
can be used with a plurality of separate containers 100. Thus, a
user can use one module 200-200D to heat a plurality of separate
containers 100 and need not purchase a plurality of containers that
each includes its separate electronics and active temperature
control module 200-200D.
[0077] FIGS. 18-19 shows another embodiment of a drinkware
container (e.g., mug) 100' that includes an active temperature
control module 200'. A charging assembly 400' in the shape of a
coaster can receive the drinkware container 100' thereon.
Advantageously, the drinkware container 100' and charging assembly
(charging coaster) 400' look like conventional/typical mugs and
coasters. The drinkware container 100' has a visual indicator 395'
in a bottom portion of the mug 100'. As shown in FIGS. 18-19, when
the drinkware container 100' sits on the charging assembly
(charging coaster) 400', the visual indicator is located vertically
above the charging coaster 400' so that it is visible. The visual
indicator 395' can be an LED light that can illuminate in a variety
of different colors, as further discussed below. In one embodiment,
the visual indicator 395' can be a single LED light (e.g., a hidden
till lit LED light).
[0078] FIGS. 20-21 shows a cross-sectional assembled and exploded
side view, respectively, of the drinkware container (e.g., mug)
100', which has an open top end 10', a base or closed bottom end
20' having a bottom (e.g., base) surface 22', and a cavity or
chamber 30' defined by a circumferential wall 40' and the base 20'.
Optionally, the drinkware container (e.g., mug) 100' can have a
handle 27'. In one embodiment, the handle 27' can be detachable
(e.g., include a rare earth magnet that allows it to couple to the
wall 40'. The handle 27' can include a customizable feature that
allows the user to readily identify the drinkware container (e.g.,
mug) 100' as theirs and distinguish it from others. For example,
different handle designs 27' can be attached to the wall 40' of the
same drinkware container (e.g., mug) 100' to facilitate
identification of the mug 100'. In another embodiment, a colored
ring can be clipped to the handle 27' to facilitate identification.
In one embodiment (not shown), a lid can be provided to cover the
top end 10' to further aid in maintaining the temperature the
liquid in the drinkware container (e.g., mug) 100', such as when
the drinkware container (e.g., mug) 100' is not in use or is being
moved around the office or home.
[0079] The base 20' and circumferential wall 40' of the drinkware
container 100' are made of a thermally conductive material, such as
a metal (e.g., stainless steel), which advantageously provides a
durable drinkware material 100' that does not break easily. The
drinkware container (e.g., mug) 100' is double walled, where the
circumferential wall 40' has an inner wall 40A' and an outer wall
40B' that is spaced apart from the inner wall 40A' to define an
annular channel or chamber 42' therebetween. The inner wall 40A'
couples to the outer wall 40B' at a proximal end 12' of the
drinkware container (e.g., mug) 100' that defines a rim 12A' (e.g.,
drinking rim), so that the annular channel 42' extends to about the
proximal end 12' between the inner wall 40A' and outer wall 40B'.
Accordingly, the base 20' is suspended (e.g., not attached
laterally) relative to the outer wall 40B'. In one embodiment, the
base 20' is single walled with a thickness of between about 0.2 mm
and about 13 mm, in some embodiments about 0.3 mm. The
circumferential wall 40', including the inner wall 40A' and outer
wall 40B' can be a deep drawn stainless-steel structure, where the
outer wall 40B' is coated with a ceramic material so the drinkware
container (e.g. mug) 100' looks like a typical ceramic mug.
[0080] The outer wall 40B' of the drinkware container (e.g., mug)
100' is coated with a ceramic material so that the drinkware
container (e.g., mug) 100' looks like a conventional ceramic mug.
The ceramic material advantageously allows the drinkware container
(e.g., mug) 100' to be coated with text and/or logos, in the same
manner conventional mugs are. In one embodiment, the outer wall
40B' of the drinkware container (e.g., mug) 100' can be laser
etched with artwork.
[0081] In one embodiment, the chamber 42' is empty (e.g., filled
with air). In another embodiment, the chamber 42' can optionally be
filled with an insulative material (e.g., polyurethane foam). The
insulative material can advantageously enhance the thermal
properties of the drinkware container (e.g., mug) 100' by
inhibiting heat loss through the circumferential wall 40'.
Additionally, the insulative material can reduce or inhibit the
metallic sound of the drinkware container (e.g., mug) 100' (e.g.,
ceramic coated mug), allowing the drinkware container (e.g., mug)
100' to sound similar to a conventional ceramic mug. In still
another embodiment, the chamber 42' can be under vacuum. In still
another embodiment, the annular channel or chamber 42' can be
filled with a phase change material (PCM) that can reduce the
temperature of a liquid poured into the chamber 30' that has a
temperature above the transition temperature of the PCM.
[0082] With continued reference to FIGS. 20-21, the temperature
control module 200' is housed in a cavity 50' defined below the
base 20', and more particularly defined at least in part below the
surface 22' and surrounded by the outer wall 40B'. As discussed
above, the base 20' is suspended relative to the outer wall 40B'.
Optionally, the cavity 50' is in communication with the annular
channel 42', as shown by the arrow FC in FIG. 21.
[0083] With continued reference to FIGS. 20-21, the drinkware
container 100' can have a locking ring 52' attached to the inner
surface of the outer wall 40B' below the base 20'. The locking ring
52' can retain a thermal insulation member 70' against the base
20'. The locking ring 52' can be made of metal (e.g., stainless
steel) and have a plurality of engaging members (e.g., hooks,
teeth) 52a'. In one embodiment, the locking ring 52' is fixed
(e.g., welded) to the inner surface of the outer wall 40B'. The
thermal insulation member 70' can optionally extend across the
inner width of the cavity 50' so as to define a barrier between the
cavity 50' and the annular channel 42'.
[0084] A heating element 210' can be in thermal contact (e.g., in
direct contact with, adjacent to) the base 20' so that the heating
element 210' is between the base 20' and the thermal insulation
member 70'. In one embodiment, the heating element 210' can be
adhered to a surface 23' of the base 20' with an adhesive. In one
embodiment, the heating element 210' can be a heater flex. The
heating element 210' can connect with control circuitry 80' (e.g.,
a printed circuit board, PCB) as further discussed below.
[0085] Optionally, a heat conductive coating or tape 205', such as
copper coating, can be disposed on the outer surface of the inner
wall 40A' (e.g., adhered to at least a portion of the surface 23'
and side surface 24') and disposed between the inner wall 40A' and
the heating element 210'. The heat conductive coating or tape 205'
can advantageously draw heat from the heating element 210' away
from the insulation member 70' and instead direct it to the side
surface 24' of the inner wall 40A', thereby reducing the amount of
heat directed to the insulation member 70' and that would need to
be directed by the heat spreader 74' away from the one or more
power storage elements 60'. Advantageously, as shown in FIG. 24,
the heat conductive coating or tape 205' does not cover the area of
the heating element 210' that includes the extension 210C' with the
sensors 216A', 216B' or that has the temperature sensor 216D' or
sensor 216C', thereby drawing heat away from the extension 210C'
and sensors 216D', 216C' and directing it to the side surface 24'
of the inner wall 40A'. In one embodiment, the heat conductive
coating or tape 205' is adhered to the inner wall 40A'. In another
embodiment, the inner wall 40A' can be dipped into a heat
conductive coating material (e.g., copper coating material), with a
portion of the surface 23', 24' (e.g., corresponding to where the
extension 210C' and sensors 216A', 216B' would be disposed) masked
to prevent that section being coated with the heat conductive
coating.
[0086] Also disposed in the cavity 50' can be one or more power
storage elements (e.g., batteries) 60'. In one embodiment, the one
or more power storage elements 60' can be two batteries (e.g.,
rechargeable batteries). As shown in FIG. 30A, a heat spreader 74'
can be disposed about the one or more power storage elements (e.g.,
batteries) 60' can facilitate dissipation of heat from the cavity
50' (e.g., from the thermal insulation member 70'). In one
embodiment, the heat spreader 74' can connect to an inner surface
of the outer wall 40B to dissipate heat from the cavity 50' to the
outer wall 40B, as further discussed below. For example, as shown
in FIG. 30B, in one embodiment, the heat spreader 74' can include a
foil wrap laminate layer 74a' (e.g., of aluminum, copper, graphite)
that extends between and operatively contacts the outer wall 40B'
and can drop the temperature by an additional 15-20 degrees (e.g.,
a drop of about 16 degrees Celsius, such as from 61 degrees C. to
45 degrees C.) by connecting with an inner surface of the outer
wall 40B'. Without such a layer 74a' (e.g., with the structure
shown in FIG. 30A) the heat spreader 74' can drop the temperature
by about six degrees (e.g., from about 61 Celsius to about 56
Celsius).
[0087] With continued reference to FIGS. 20-21, an end cap 220' can
couple to the locking ring 52'. For example, the end cap 220' can
have a plurality of engaging elements (e.g., recesses or slots)
220a' that engage the engaging members (e.g., hooks or teeth) 52a'
of the locking ring 52'. Advantageously, the end cap 220' can
couple with the locking ring 52' so that the outer surface of the
end cap 200' is flush with the outer wall 40B' to present a
substantially seamless structure for the assembled drinkware
container (e.g., mug) 100'.
[0088] A compression molded gasket 72' can optionally be annularly
disposed between an outer surface of the end cap 220' and an inner
surface of the outer wall 40B' that defines the cavity 50'.
Advantageously, the compression molded gasket 72' can seal the end
cap 220' against the outer wall 40B' and inhibit (e.g., prevent)
entry of liquid into the cavity 50'. The end cap 220' can engage
the locking ring 52' to couple the end cap 220' to the
circumferential wall 40' of the drinkware container (e.g., mug)
100' to complete the assembly, with the electronics disposed
between the base 20' and the end cap 220' in the cavity 50'.
Therefore, the end cap 220' defines the bottom end of the drinkware
container 100' once assembled to the outer wall 40B'. For example,
the following components can be disposed in the following order
between the base 20' and the end cap 220': heating element 210',
insulation member 70', heat spreader 74', one or more power storage
elements 60', and control circuitry (PCB) 80'. The end cap 220' can
be made of plastic, which advantageously allows a transmitter,
receiver and/or transceiver (e.g., Bluetooth transmitter) on the
control circuitry 80' to transmit information to and/or receive
information from outside the drinkware container (e.g., mug) 100'.
In one embodiment, the transmitter, receiver and/or transceiver can
be housed in the handle 27' and communicate with the control
circuitry 80' via a conduit in the handle 27'.
[0089] The end cap 220' can have a button 225' movably mounted on a
bottom surface 222' of the end cap 220' (e.g., substantially at the
center of the bottom surface 222'). The button 225' can movably
engage a switch on the control circuitry 80' to perform one or more
functions. For example, pressing the button 225' can turn power
on/off to the electronics of the drinkware container (e.g., mug)
100', such as tuning power on/off to the heating element 210'; can
toggle through one or more temperature set points or temperature
ranges stored in a memory of the control circuitry 80' and to which
the heating element 210' can be operated; reset one or more
operating parameters of the electronics in the drinkware container
(e.g., mug) 100'; initiate one or more test or diagnostic functions
of the drinkware container 100'; pair the drinkware container
(e.g., mug) 100' with a remote control (e.g., a mobile electronic
device; and/or toggle through one or more colors shown by the
visual indicator 395'. For example, the user can turn on power to
the drinkware container (e.g., mug) 100' by pushing the button 225'
once, and turn off power to the drinkware container (e.g., mug)
100' by pressing on the button 225' for a predetermined period of
time (e.g., 2 seconds, 3 seconds). The user can optionally push the
button 225' for a predetermined period of time (e.g., 4 seconds, 5
seconds), such as if the drinkware container (e.g., mug) 100' has
been off, to pair the drinkware container (e.g., mug) 100' with a
mobile electronic device, after which the user can select the color
for the visual indicator 395' via an app downloaded to their mobile
electronic device. If the user never pairs the drinkware container
(e.g., mug) 100' with a mobile electronic device, the visual
indicator 395' will use a default color. The user can optionally
reset the electronics in the drinkware container (e.g., mug) 100'
by pressing on the button 225' for a predetermined period of time
(e.g., 7 seconds, 8 seconds, etc.). The user can optionally reset
the electronics in the drinkware container (e.g., mug) 100' to the
factory settings by pressing on the button 225' for a predetermined
period of time (e.g., 14 seconds, 15 seconds, etc.). In one
embodiment, the drinkware container (e.g., mug) 100' can have a
shipping mode (e.g., entered into at the factory prior to shipping
to run tests on the mug 100') where motion of the drinkware
container (e.g., mug) 100' does not turn on power to the mug 100';
however, once the button 225' is subsequently pressed and mug 100'
moved, the shipping mode is disabled.
[0090] As discussed above, in one embodiment, the user can press
the button 225' to toggle through different temperature set points
for operation of the drinkware container (e.g., mug) 100'. In one
embodiment, such different temperature set points can be
illustrated by a color illuminated by the visual indicator 395'
(e.g., red for relatively hotter, pink for less hot, blue for
relatively cooler, etc.). For example, the user can optionally
press and hold the button 225 for a predetermined period of time to
activate the toggle function and once activated (e.g., indicated by
flashing visual indicator 395') can press or tap button 225 to
toggle between preselected temperatures or temperature ranges.
[0091] In another embodiment, the end cap 220' can include a
capacitance touch sensor. In this embodiment, the user can slide
their finger along a surface of the end cap 220' to select an
operating temperature or temperature range for the drinkware
container (e.g., mug) 100' as indicated by the visual indicator
395'.
[0092] In still another embodiment, the handle 27' can include
temperature controls (e.g., capacitance touch sensors or slider,
buttons, rotary ring) for the user to select the operating
temperature or temperature range (e.g., hot, warm) for the
drinkware container (e.g., mug) 100'.
[0093] In still another embodiment, the charging assembly (e.g.,
charging coaster) 400' can include temperature controls (e.g.,
touch sensors, buttons) on a rim thereof that a user can actuate
while the drinkware container (e.g., mug) 100' is placed on the
charging coaster 400' to select the operating temperature or
temperature range for the drinkware container (e.g., mug) 100'. In
one embodiment, the temperature control can be a touch sensitive
LED color bar the user can slide their finger over to select the
approximate desired temperature for the liquid in the chamber 30'.
The LED color bar can allow the user to adjust the temperature set
point for the liquid in the chamber 30' by sliding their finger
along the bar (e.g., between a relatively less hot temperature and
a relatively more hot temperature).
[0094] In still another embodiment, the charging assembly (e.g.,
charging coaster) 400' can include a hall effect sensor that can
sense rotation of the drinkware container (e.g., mug) 100' while on
the charging coaster 400'. The user can rotate the drinkware
container (e.g., mug) 100' to adjust the temperature set point. The
charger can sense the change in angular position of the mug 100'
correlate said change with a change in temperature set point and
identify said change for the user (e.g., via an LED color bar, via
change in the color provided by the visual indicator 395', via one
or more visual lights on the charging coaster 400' that change
color with the angular orientation of the mug 100'), and
communicate the change in temperature set point to the control
circuitry 80', which can control the heating element 210' to effect
the change.
[0095] FIGS. 22-26 show views of the heating element 210' attached
to the base 20', such as to an outer surface 41A' of the inner wall
40A'. FIG. 22 shows the bottom view of the drinkware container
(e.g., mug) 100' with the end cap 220' and electronics removed, and
shows the heating element 210' attached to the base 20'. FIG. 23
excludes the outer wall 40B' for clarity and shows the heating
element 210' attached to the base 20'. FIG. 24 shows the heat
conductive coating or tape 205' that attaches to the surface 23' of
the base 20' that is opposite the surface 22' and under which the
heating element 210' is disposed. As described further below, the
heating element 210' defines a crescent shaped heating area HA.
That is, the heating element 210' does not heat the entire bottom
surface 22' (i.e., the heating area is not circular). FIG. 25
excludes the inner wall 40A' for clarity and shows the heating
element 210' arranged above the one or more power storage elements
60' and an extension 210A' of the heating element 210' connected to
the control circuitry 80' arranged below the one or more power
storage elements 60' within the end cap 220'.
[0096] FIG. 26 schematically shows the heating element 210'. The
heating element 210' can have one or more heaters 212' (e.g.,
heater wires). In the illustrated embodiment, the heating element
210' has a first heater 212A' and a second heater 212B' that extend
along a portion (but not all) of a generally planar area 210B' of
the heating element 210'. The first and second heaters 212A', 212B'
can extend in an undulating fashion over a portion of the heating
element 210' generally resembling a crescent, "Pac-Man" or C-shape
(e.g., covering an asymmetric area, not covering a circular area).
In other embodiments, the at least one heater 212' can have a shape
generally resembling a U-shape (e.g., covering an asymmetric area,
not covering a circular area), as shown in FIG. 31. The heating
element 210' can have a connector 214' at an end of the extension
210A' that extends from the generally planar area 210B'. The
connector 214' can optionally be a 10-pin connector that can
connect to the control circuitry (e.g., PCB) 80'. However, other
suitable connectors can be used. The first heater 212A' and second
heater 212B' can optionally be operated separately (e.g., only one
of the first or second heaters 212A', 212B' being on) or
simultaneously (e.g., both the first and second heaters 212A',
212B' being on at the same time).
[0097] Advantageously, the liquid in the chamber 30' can be heated
with only one of the heaters 212A', 212B'. In one embodiment, the
first and second heaters 212A', 212B' can have the same operating
parameters. In another embodiment, the first and second heaters
212A', 212B' can have different operating parameters. For example,
the first heater 212A can operate at approximately 19 volts, 1.39
amps and 12.3 ohms and the second heater 212B can operate at
approximately 3.6 volts, 5.6 amps and 0.65 ohms. Power to the one
or more heaters 212' can be cycled by the control circuitry 80' to
maintain the temperature of the liquid in the chamber 30' at
approximately the temperature set point (e.g., user selected
temperature set point, default temperature set point, etc.). In one
embodiment, both the first and second heaters 212A', 212B'
optionally operate at the same time when the drinkware container
100' is disposed on the charging assembly (e.g., charging coaster)
400' and power is provided to the drinkware container 100' by the
charging assembly (e.g., charging coaster) 400' as discussed
further below. Optionally, only one of the first and second heaters
212A', 212B' is operated when the drinkware container (e.g., mug)
100' is not disposed on the charging assembly (e.g., charging
coaster) 400' and the heating element 210' is powered by the one or
more power storage elements 60'.
[0098] With continued reference to FIG. 26, the heating element
210' can include a plurality of sensors 216'. For example, the
heating element 210' can have two sensors 216A', 216B' on an
extension 210C' that extends from the generally planar area 210B'.
The extension 210C' can extend a distance (e.g., 10 cm, 20 cm)
along the height of the inner wall 40A' above the base 20' to
measure a liquid level in the chamber 30', as discussed further
below. The heating element 210' can also have a third sensor 216C'
disposed on the generally planar portion 210B'. The third sensor
216C' is spaced apart (e.g., by about 20 mm) from the first and
second heaters 212A', 212B' to inhibit (e.g., prevent) operation of
the first and/or second heaters 212A', 212B' from affecting (e.g.,
biasing) the information sensed by the third sensor 216C'. The
plurality of sensors 216' can communicate with the control
circuitry 80' via the connector 214'. The one or more heaters 212'
(e.g., first heater 212A', second heater 212B') can communicate
with the control circuitry 80' via the connector 214'. In one
embodiment, the plurality of sensors 216' can be negative
temperature coefficient (NTC) thermistors. A temperature sensor
216D', which can optionally be a silicon temperature sensor, is
disposed near the sensor 216C' and away from the one or more
heaters 212' on the generally planar portion 210B' of the heating
element 210'. The temperature sensor 216D' can communicate with the
control circuitry 80' via the connector 214'.
[0099] The extension 210C' can extend along a distal side portion
of the inner wall 40A' and sense information indicative of or
corresponding to a liquid level in the chamber 30'. In particular,
the sensors 216A', 216B' in the extension 210C' can sense when a
liquid level in the chamber 30' is below a threshold and
communicate such signal to the control circuitry 80' to adjust an
operation of the heating element 210' (e.g., reduce power to, or
cease power to, the one or more heaters 212'), such as to avoid
temperature overshoot by delivering too much heat to the relatively
low level of liquid in the chamber 30'. The sensor 216D' can sense
a temperature of the surface 23' and communicate it to the control
circuitry 80' as indicative of or corresponding to a temperature of
the liquid in the chamber 30'. The one or more heaters 212' can
heat liquid in the chamber 30' to between about 120 degrees F. and
about 145 degrees F. In one embodiment, the drinkware container
100' can have a default temperature set point of 130 degrees F.,
unless changed by the user (e.g., via an App using their mobile
electronic device, as discussed further below). In one embodiment,
one or more of the sensors 216' can allow the control circuitry 80'
to automatically turn on when liquid is sensed in the chamber 30'.
In another embodiment, one or more of the sensors 216', such as the
sensors 216A', 216B', allow the control circuitry 80' to
automatically turn off power to the one or more heaters 212' when a
liquid level in the chamber 30' is detected signifying that the
chamber 30' is nearly empty or empty.
[0100] Advantageously, the control circuitry 80' limits power to
the one or more heaters 212' so that temperature in the chamber 30'
(e.g., temperature of the bottom surface 22') is below a
predetermined amount (e.g., no greater than 150 degrees F.), such
as when a low liquid level is detected by the sensors 216A', 216B'
in the extension 210C' (e.g., when the mug 100' is empty) to
inhibit injury to the user. In one embodiment, the control
circuitry 80' limits power to the one or more heaters 212' to keep
the temperature in the chamber 30' (e.g., at the base 20') below a
predetermined amount (e.g., no greater than 100 Celsius) to heat
liquid in the chamber 30'. In particular, if firmware malfunctions,
a hardwired circuit limits power to the one or more heaters 212' so
that they operate below a predetermined temperature (e.g., no
greater than 100 Celsius) to inhibit injury to a user, such as if
the mug 100' is empty.
[0101] In one embodiment, the one or more power storage elements
60' can allow the one or more heaters 212' to operate for at least
15 minutes, at least 30 minutes, at least 45 minutes, etc. while
off the charging assembly (e.g., charging coaster) 400'. In one
embodiment, the one or more power storage elements 60', fully
charged, can provide approximately 1 hour of power to the one or
more heaters 212' when not on the charging assembly 400'.
Alternatively, when on the charging assembly 400', the one or more
heaters 212' can operate all day (e.g., about 8 hours, about 10
hours, about 12 hours, about 15 hours, about 24 hours).
[0102] In one embodiment, the charging assembly (e.g., charging
coaster) 400' can charge the one or more power storage elements 60'
in approximately ninety minutes at 0.5 c charging rate, and at
approximately sixty minutes at 1.0 c charging rate (e.g., fast
charging). In one embodiment, the user can actuate fast charging of
the one or more power storage elements 60' via the app on their
mobile electronic device (e.g., smartphone) once it is paired with
the drinkware container (e.g. mug) 100'. In one embodiment, the app
can allow the user to elect the fast charging option a limited
number of times to avoid affecting the working life of the one or
more power storage elements 60'. For example, the app can allow the
user to elect the fast charging option only once (e.g., once every
month, once every few months, once ever, etc.).
[0103] The control circuitry 80' can include an accelerometer
(e.g., 3-axis accelerometer) to sense motion of the drinkware
container 100'. In one embodiment, the control circuitry 80' can
"wake up" when motion is sensed (by the accelerometer) after a
predetermined period of time in which the drinkware container
(e.g., mug) 100' has not moved (e.g., is in a standby state). In
one embodiment, upon said sensed motion of the drinkware container
(e.g., mug) 100' the visual indicator 395' can optionally
illuminate to the preselected color (e.g., color selected by the
user via the app on their mobile electronic device to identify
their mug). Additionally, movement of the drinkware container 100'
after it has been in a standby state, can automatically connect the
drinkware container (e.g., mug) 100' to the app in the user's
mobile electronic device to which the mug 100' was previously
paired. Further, upon movement of the drinkware container (e.g.,
mug) 100' following a standby state, the control circuitry 80' will
seek to detect liquid in the drinkware container (e.g., mug) 100'
(e.g., via the sensors 216'). If no liquid is detected after a
predetermined period of time (e.g., 1 minute, 3 minutes, 5 minutes,
10 minutes, etc.), the control circuitry 80' will switch the
drinkware container (e.g., mug) 100' back to standby state. For
example, if the sensors 216A', 216B' sense that the chamber 30' is
almost empty or empty, the control circuitry 80' will enter the
standby state. The drinkware container (e.g., mug) can continue in
a standby state until it is moved or switched off via the button
225'. When switched off via the button 225', movement of the
drinkware container (e.g. mug) 100' does not wake up the control
circuitry 80'. Further, as discussed above, the control circuitry
80' can have one or more tilt sensors (e.g., gyroscopes), and the
control circuitry 80' will enter the standby state if it senses the
drinkware container (e.g., mug) 100 has been turned upside down
(e.g., during a cleaning of the mug).
[0104] The visual indicator 395', in addition to providing an
identification of the drinkware container (e.g., mug) 100' can also
provide an indication of operating parameters. For example, when
the power level of the one or more power storage elements 60' is
below a predetermined amount (e.g., low power), the visual
indicator 395' illuminates solid red. The visual indicator 395' can
also indicate a charging state with a different color (e.g.,
flashing red color) and indicate a fully charged power storage
elements 60' with a different color (e.g., solid white).
[0105] FIG. 27 shows a perspective bottom view of the drinkware
container 100'. The drinkware container (e.g., mug) 100' can have a
pair of electrical contacts 298' on the bottom surface 222' of the
end cap 220'. The electrical contacts 298' can be a pair or
circular electrical contacts. In one embodiment, the electrical
contacts 298' can be gold plated and disposed about the button 225'
on the bottom surface 222'. The electrical contacts 298' can
contact corresponding electrical contacts 430' (e.g., a pair of
pogo pin electrical contacts) on the charging assembly (e.g.,
charging coaster) 400', as shown in FIG. 28. The charging assembly
(e.g., charging coaster) 400' can have a recess 402' sized to
receive at least a portion of the drinkware assembly (e.g., mug)
100' (e.g., at least a portion of the end cap 220') so that the
electrical contacts 298' contact the corresponding electrical
contacts 430'. The recess 402' can be sized to receive drinkware
containers (e.g., mugs) 100' of different sizes (e.g., without
having to use a different sized charging assembly 400') and still
allow the connection between the electrical contacts in the
drinkware container (e.g., mug) 100' and the charging assembly 400'
to effect power delivery to the drinkware container (e.g., mug)
100'.
[0106] The charging assembly (e.g., charging coaster) 400' can have
a cable 410' connected via a connector 412' that extends to a power
connector (not shown) for delivering power to the charging assembly
(e.g., charging coaster) 400'. The power connector can be a wall
outlet, USB connector, micro-USB connector, etc. Optionally, the
cable 410' can removably connect to the charging coaster 400' via
the connector 412' so that the charging coaster 400' can be used
without the cable 410 attached to it (e.g., to support the
drinkware container 100' as a typical coaster). In another
embodiment, the charging assembly (e.g., charging coaster) 400' can
house one or more batteries to be able to charge the drinkware
container (e.g., mug) 100' when on the charging coaster 400' while
being portable (e.g., while not connected to a power source via the
cable 410').
[0107] As discussed above, the control circuitry 80' can have a
transmitter, receiver and/or transceiver to allow the drinkware
container (e.g., mug) 100' to communicate with a mobile electronic
device (e.g. smartphone) as discussed above in connection with FIG.
15. The mobile electronic device can receive information from the
drinkware container (e.g., mug) 100', such as one or more of
temperature set point, battery charge level, liquid level, an alert
signal that the mug 100' has tipped over, etc. The drinkware
container (e.g., mug) 100' can receive information, instructions or
settings from the mobile electronic device, such as one or more of
a temperature set point to heat the liquid in the mug 100' to, a
color selection for the visual indicator 395' to identify the mug
100' (e.g., identify the mug 100' as the user's mug, relative to
other mugs 100' that may be in use) to help the user identify which
mug 100' is theirs.
[0108] In one embodiment, the control circuitry 80' can provide for
voice control of the operation of the drinkware container (e.g.,
mug) 100'. For example, the control circuitry 80' can have a
microphone for receiving voice commands from the user. In another
embodiment, the user can provide voice commands to the drinkware
container (e.g., mug) 100 via the intelligent assistant (e.g., Ski)
on the user's mobile electronic device that is paired with the
drinkware container (e.g., mug) 100'.
[0109] In another embodiment, the drinkware container (e.g., mug)
100' can have a built-in speaker for notifying the user when the
liquid in the chamber 30' has reached the user selected
temperature. For example, the control circuitry 80' can have a
"drink ready" notice provided to the user.
[0110] In still another embodiment, the temperature control module
200' can instead be a ring (not shown) that is placed around a
conventional mug that has no electronics in it to provide for
temperature delivery to the ceramic mug. Power to the temperature
control module 200' can be provided by inductive coupling when the
ceramic mug is placed on the charging assembly (e.g., charging
coaster) 400'.
[0111] In another embodiment, the drinkware container (e.g., mug)
100' can have a display screen that displays the type of drink the
user wants. The type of drink can be based on a drinking history
tracked, for example, by the app on the mobile electronic device
that is paired with the drinkware container (e.g., mug) 100'. The
app can track the types of drinks the user consumes at different
times of day and can display a type of drink on the mug 100' at
said time of day, which the user can alter (swipe through different
selections on the display screen). The user can then just hand the
drinkware container (e.g., mug) 100' to the coffee house attendee,
who can simply read the drink type on the display screen to
complete the order.
[0112] Though the features disclosed above may be described in
connection with the container 100, such as a mug, one of skill in
the art will recognize that any of the features described in this
embodiment can also apply to any drinkware, dishware, serverware,
and storage container (e.g., cup, travel mug, baby bottle, sippy
cup, thermos, water bottle, such as a reusable water bottle,
carafe, soup container, bowl, plate, platter, food storage
containers, such as Tupperware.RTM. containers, lunch boxes).
[0113] While certain embodiments of the inventions have been
described, these embodiments have been presented by way of example
only, and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure.
Indeed, the novel methods and systems described herein may be
embodied in a variety of other forms. For example, though the
features disclosed herein are described for drinkware containers,
the features are applicable to containers that are not drinkware
containers (e.g., plates, bowls, serverware, food storage
containers) and the invention is understood to extend to such other
containers. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions and
changes in the systems and methods described herein may be made
without departing from the spirit of the disclosure. The
accompanying claims and their equivalents are intended to cover
such forms or modifications as would fall within the scope and
spirit of the disclosure. Accordingly, the scope of the present
inventions is defined only by reference to the appended claims.
[0114] Features, materials, characteristics, or groups described in
conjunction with a particular aspect, embodiment, or example are to
be understood to be applicable to any other aspect, embodiment or
example described in this section or elsewhere in this
specification unless incompatible therewith. All of the features
disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims,
abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or
process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except
combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are
mutually exclusive. The protection is not restricted to the details
of any foregoing embodiments. The protection extends to any novel
one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this
specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and
drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the
steps of any method or process so disclosed.
[0115] Furthermore, certain features that are described in this
disclosure in the context of separate implementations can also be
implemented in combination in a single implementation. Conversely,
various features that are described in the context of a single
implementation can also be implemented in multiple implementations
separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although
features may be described above as acting in certain combinations,
one or more features from a claimed combination can, in some cases,
be excised from the combination, and the combination may be claimed
as a subcombination or variation of a subcombination.
[0116] Moreover, while operations may be depicted in the drawings
or described in the specification in a particular order, such
operations need not be performed in the particular order shown or
in sequential order, or that all operations be performed, to
achieve desirable results. Other operations that are not depicted
or described can be incorporated in the example methods and
processes. For example, one or more additional operations can be
performed before, after, simultaneously, or between any of the
described operations. Further, the operations may be rearranged or
reordered in other implementations. Those skilled in the art will
appreciate that in some embodiments, the actual steps taken in the
processes illustrated and/or disclosed may differ from those shown
in the figures. Depending on the embodiment, certain of the steps
described above may be removed, others may be added. Furthermore,
the features and attributes of the specific embodiments disclosed
above may be combined in different ways to form additional
embodiments, all of which fall within the scope of the present
disclosure. Also, the separation of various system components in
the implementations described above should not be understood as
requiring such separation in all implementations, and it should be
understood that the described components and systems can generally
be integrated together in a single product or packaged into
multiple products.
[0117] For purposes of this disclosure, certain aspects,
advantages, and novel features are described herein. Not
necessarily all such advantages may be achieved in accordance with
any particular embodiment. Thus, for example, those skilled in the
art will recognize that the disclosure may be embodied or carried
out in a manner that achieves one advantage or a group of
advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other
advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.
[0118] Conditional language, such as "can," "could," "might," or
"may," unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise
understood within the context as used, is generally intended to
convey that certain embodiments include, while other embodiments do
not include, certain features, elements, and/or steps. Thus, such
conditional language is not generally intended to imply that
features, elements, and/or steps are in any way required for one or
more embodiments or that one or more embodiments necessarily
include logic for deciding, with or without user input or
prompting, whether these features, elements, and/or steps are
included or are to be performed in any particular embodiment.
[0119] Conjunctive language such as the phrase "at least one of X,
Y, and Z," unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise
understood with the context as used in general to convey that an
item, term, etc. may be either X, Y, or Z. Thus, such conjunctive
language is not generally intended to imply that certain
embodiments require the presence of at least one of X, at least one
of Y, and at least one of Z.
[0120] Language of degree used herein, such as the terms
"approximately," "about," "generally," and "substantially" as used
herein represent a value, amount, or characteristic close to the
stated value, amount, or characteristic that still performs a
desired function or achieves a desired result. For example, the
terms "approximately", "about", "generally," and "substantially"
may refer to an amount that is within less than 10% of, within less
than 5% of, within less than 1% of, within less than 0.1% of, and
within less than 0.01% of the stated amount. As another example, in
certain embodiments, the terms "generally parallel" and
"substantially parallel" refer to a value, amount, or
characteristic that departs from exactly parallel by less than or
equal to 15 degrees, 10 degrees, 5 degrees, 3 degrees, 1 degree, or
0.1 degree.
[0121] The scope of the present disclosure is not intended to be
limited by the specific disclosures of preferred embodiments in
this section or elsewhere in this specification, and may be defined
by claims as presented in this section or elsewhere in this
specification or as presented in the future. The language of the
claims is to be interpreted broadly based on the language employed
in the claims and not limited to the examples described in the
present specification or during the prosecution of the application,
which examples are to be construed as non-exclusive.
[0122] Though the features and ideas disclosed above may be related
to actively heating or cooling food or beverage, the embodiments
above may also be used to heat or cool air spaces, such as
refrigeration devices, cold boxes, coolers, portable coolers, or
portable refrigerators, or hot boxes, or warmer drawers, or heat
chambers, or any other device that would benefit from the heating
or cooling of the air within a defined cavity or chamber.
[0123] The term "electronic module" is meant to refer to
electronics generally. Furthermore, the term "electronic module"
should not be interpreted to require that the electronics be all in
one physical location or connected to one single printed circuit
board (PCB). One of skill in the art will recognize that the
electronic module or electronics disclosed herein can be in one or
more (e.g., plurality) of separate parts (coupled to one or a
plurality of PCBs) and/or located in different physical locations
of the body of the container, as disclosed herein. That is, the
electronic module or electronics can have different form
factors.
[0124] Of course, the foregoing description is that of certain
features, aspects and advantages of the present invention, to which
various changes and modifications can be made without departing
from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Moreover, the
heated or cooled drinkware need not feature all of the objects,
advantages, features and aspects discussed above. Thus, for
example, those of skill in the art will recognize that the
invention can be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves
or optimizes one advantage or a group of advantages as taught
herein without necessarily achieving other objects or advantages as
may be taught or suggested herein. In addition, while a number of
variations of the invention have been shown and described in
detail, other modifications and methods of use, which are within
the scope of this invention, will be readily apparent to those of
skill in the art based upon this disclosure. It is contemplated
that various combinations or subcombinations of these specific
features and aspects of embodiments may be made and still fall
within the scope of the invention. Accordingly, it should be
understood that various features and aspects of the disclosed
embodiments can be combined with or substituted for one another in
order to form varying modes of the discussed containers.
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